Hadrian’s Villa: the entire archaeological area – Tivoli: the middle age small district - Villa d'Este: The Palace and its surrounding Gardens with fountains.

Tivoli is a typical medieval town on top of the Tiburtini Hills located 30 kilometers east of Rome, in the wonderful countryside that once attracted many wealthy Romans. The area is also plentiful of the renowned travertine quarries, visible from the road.
In the morning we first visit the entire archaeological area of Hadrian's Villa: the most magnificent of all the imperial residences, on the slope of the Tiburtini Hill. Walking through its impressive remains, one can also enjoy a heavenly peace amidst the sound of crickets and birds: as writer Marguerite Yourcenar experienced when she wandered around looking for the spirit of Hadrian for her best-selling novel entitled "Memoirs of Hadrian".

After visiting Hadrian's Villa, we'll drive to the town of Tivoli where, strolling throughout the typical narrow streets of the old town, we will choose one of its excellent restaurants, to relax and taste the delicious local cuisine, and enjoy the panoramic views from the top of the hills.

In the afternoon we'll continue our tour by visiting the Villa d'Este, residence of one of the most powerful cardinals of the 1500s, Ippolito d'Este, son of the noted (and notorious) Lucrezia Borgia. You will love the Palace, decorated with marvelous Mannerist frescoes, but the famous garden will enchant you instantly with its countless, breathtaking fountains which lay on sloping terraces shaded by old oak and cypress trees. Children, too, will be amused by these beautiful watergames: a visit to this Renaissance Villa is the perfect choice for a hot summer afternoon because of the cool climate in the hills and the delightful breeze that the plants and trees provide in the garden.